catafalque Definition
a decorated wooden framework supporting the coffin of a distinguished person during a funeral or while lying in state.
Using catafalque: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "catafalque" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The catafalque was adorned with flowers and candles.
Example
The President's body lay in state on a catafalque in the Capitol Rotunda.
Example
The elaborate catafalque was constructed for the funeral of the king.
catafalque Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for catafalque
- bier
- coffin stand
- funeral platform
Phrases with catafalque
catafalque bearers
people who carry the catafalque during a funeral procession
Example
The military honor guard served as catafalque bearers during the President's funeral.
a decorative cloth covering placed over the top of the catafalque
Example
The red, white, and blue catafalque canopy was draped over the President's coffin.
a ceremonial march in which the catafalque is carried to the burial site
Example
The catafalque procession moved slowly through the streets of the city, accompanied by solemn music.
Origins of catafalque
from French 'catafalque', from Italian 'catafalco', from 'cata-' (intensive prefix) + 'falso' (false)
Summary: catafalque in Brief
'Catafalque' [ˈkætəfælk] is a noun that refers to a decorated wooden framework that supports a coffin of a distinguished person during a funeral or while lying in state. It is often adorned with flowers and candles, and can be carried by catafalque bearers during a procession. The term also includes related phrases like 'catafalque canopy' and 'catafalque procession.'
